When utilizing interactionist theories, what do people primarily focus on?

Interactionist theories emphasize the importance of social interactions and individual relationships in shaping behaviors and identities within sports. This perspective focuses on how people's experiences in sports are influenced by their relationships with others, their social environments, and the meanings they attach to their experiences.

Through this lens, individuals are seen as active participants who interpret and negotiate their roles, rather than simply being shaped by broader societal structures or economic conditions. For example, a player's sense of identity, motivation, and performance can be deeply affected by their interactions with coaches, teammates, and fans.

Focusing on the processes of social learning and the relationships between individuals allows for a more nuanced understanding of how social contexts impact sports participation and experience, making this perspective invaluable in examining the complex social dimensions of sports.